I was lucky enough to be cageside for Matt Turnbull’s MMA debut several years ago. Despite losing a decision, I knew Matt would go on to have a nice run. He took on a physical specimen in Joel Vasquez, and was bloodied and battered but showed so much heart and determination. You can see the difference in his body now. Clearly, he has matured and developed into a fighter that has a stronger physique, and more first-hand knowledge of the sport.

Matt Turnbull and brother Nick Turnbull after their wins at WCC 13

Training with the beasts at Northeast Philly’s Martinez BJJ, will only improve your game. Turnbull has taken that and run with it as he has moved his record to 5-2 and now takes on World Cagefighting Championship’s 135 lb champion, Ben Moser, in a non-title catchweight bout on Friday, December 2nd in Maneheim, PA.

Turnbull has gotten to train with Bellator vet and leader at Martinez, Will Martinez as well as UFC standout Zack Mackovsky. He even got the experience of working Makovky’s corner for a big UFC event. Now it is his turn for some of the spotlight as he takes his lethal submission game into the cage. Four of Turnbull’s five wins are by submission with three of them coming in the first round.

Growing up in the city toughens you automatically. It’s either that or get run over. Matt and his brother, Nick have each taken to MMA training and fighting to harness their energy and keep them safe. Entering the cage after battling through the streets and that tough room should be fun for a fighter. We will see if that’s the way it goes as Turnbull heads into this bout with a goal to not only win the belt, but continue his journey in life and the grind of mixed martial arts. I spoke with the willing challenger and talked about his career thus far and what he sees for this fight and his future. We will be cageside with full event results and I will also be bringing several fights Live on Facebook. Send Bob Meloni a friend request to join in on the action!

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'Beautiful' Bob Meloni

Commentator for Art of War Cagefighting. More than 10 years experience in the PA/NJ regional MMA circuit. Commentator/post fight interviews. Television/media/event production.
The story of the fighter is what Bob loves about the sport. From the lowest level, to the highest, he only cares about the two warriors who do battle once the cage doors close. Everything else is secondary. Without their blood, sweat, and tears, he would not be here enjoying every minute.